Confocal laser-scanning microscope with STED super-resolution mode

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The confocal laser-scanning microscope with STED super-resolution mode will replace a 9-year old microscope while at the same time establishing live-cell and super-resolution microscopy at the TU Kaiserslautern.Our aim is to perform quantitative and qualitative analyses of cellular and sub-cellular structures of the nervous system and of additional cellular systems. Our focus is the investigation of the molecular and cellular bases of synapse formation, stability and plasticity. These processes are relevant for our understanding of learning and memory and will provide new insights into the cellular and sub-cellular causes of progressive neurodegenerative disease.To achieve these goals, the microscope should cover the following applications: 1. State-of-the-art quantitative and qualitative analyses of fixed tissue at best possible resolution. 2. Live-cell imaging and FRAP-analysis to determine the dynamics of cellular processes in vivo. 3. Super-resolution imaging (< 50 nm) to unravel the basis of sub-cellular, nanoscopic processes in fixed and living tissue and animals.The unique combination of these three applications will enable competitive research in the filed of cellular neurobiology. At the same time, it will establish super-resolution microscopy at the department of biology of the TU Kaiserslautern which will be essential for numerous different research projects in the future.